Annoying Travel Habits According to Recent Survey

A recent study uncovered travellers’ biggest bugbears when flying, whether it’s in-flight or at the baggage carousel.

2 October 2023

According to a recent Skyscanner survey, boozed-up travellers, entitled queue-cutters, and overpackers are among the most frustrating traveller types to encounter. The flight-booking site quizzed 2,000 flyers about their biggest bugbears when travelling by plane – and most of the results come as little surprise.

Most Annoying Travel Habits

At the bottom of the list, 13% of those surveyed said that queueing at the gate long before boarding starts is one of the most annoying travel habits. While it’s understandable to secure an overhead compartment spot for hand luggage on a short-haul escape, the rush followed by 20 minutes of standing still is often seen as a travel ‘ick’. Moreover, clapping when the plane lands was voted a cringy habit by 20% of participants; perhaps it’s best to internalise that relief next time.

Taking shoes and socks off on the plane ranked as the 14th most annoying habit. While tired travellers sandwiching their sunburnt feet beside the seat in front of them might amuse some on social media, 22% declared it a no-no.

Reclining Habits

Keen recliners should take note. While comfort is essential, 40% of those surveyed found reclining your seat during the flight to be one of the most irritating habits. Therefore, asking the person behind if they mind is advisable. Additionally, 81% support a rule banning reclining during food and drink service, highlighting the need for consideration in shared spaces.

Interestingly, 12% of those polled admitted to being guilty of annoying habits themselves, showcasing a level of self-awareness. A quarter own up to taking shoes and socks off, while 19% report holding up security lines.

Generational Divide in Travel Etiquette

There’s certainly a generational divide when it comes to perceived travel etiquette. Gen Z believe themselves to be most guilty of unwanted plane behaviours, while only 7% of baby boomers think they’re in the wrong.

Complete List of Annoying Travel Habits

Below is a complete list of the most annoying travel habits according to the Skyscanner study:

1. Drinking too much alcohol on the flight (48%)
2. Letting children run around on the plane (48%)
3. Cutting queues (43%)
4. Reclining your seat while food and drinks are served (43%)
5. Reclining your seat back at any point during the flight (40%)
6. Using gadgets without headphones (35%)
7. Standing up as soon as the plane lands (33%)
8. Leaving bags on the seat to get comfortable when trying to sit down (31%)
9. Hogging both armrests on the flight (31%)
10. Draping hair over the back of the seat (28%)
11. Taking up multiple seats in the departure lounge (28%)
12. Not separating liquids before security, causing hold-ups (27%)
13. Not having passports or boarding passes ready, holding up the queue (24%)
14. Taking shoes or socks off on the plane (22%)
15. Blocking escalators so others can’t walk past (22%)
16. Over-packing and causing delays while sorting bags (21%)
17. Clapping when the plane lands (20%)
18. Picking up the wrong luggage from the carousel (18%)
19. Standing right next to where the luggage comes out from the carousel (15%)
20. Queuing at the gate long before boarding starts (13%)